A late-innings power surge led by a sensational batting display from Mark Chapman secured a dramatic three-run victory for New Zealand (Black Caps) over the West Indies in the second T20 at Eden Park, Auckland, leveling the five-match series at 1-1.
New Zealand struggled early on a tricky, two-paced pitch after being sent in by West Indies captain Shai Hope, reaching just 81-2 after 12 overs. The match was flipped on its head by Chapman, who moved from 12 off nine balls to smash 66 runs from his next 19 deliveries. Chapman finished with an incredible 78 off just 28 balls, including seven sixes and six fours, powering the Black Caps to a daunting total of 207-5. New Zealand conceded 126 runs in the final eight overs of the innings.
The West Indies chase was relentless, highlighted by powerful hitting from Romario Shepherd (34 off 16) and Rovman Powell (45 off 16). Despite early wickets falling to Jacob Duffy and effective spin bowling from Ish Sodhi (3-39) and captain Mitchell Santner (3-31), the visitors kept pace.
The contest went down to the wire, with Matthew Forde (29 off 13) needing a boundary off the final ball to tie the match. He could only manage a single, handing New Zealand the tight win.
The series is now perfectly poised, with the third match scheduled for Nelson on Sunday.
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